ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE DAY

Mary-Ellen's Note

"Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it..."

Proverbs 16:22 (NIV)

"But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere."

James 3:17 (NIV)

Occasionally, as we think back to our early years, some of us would like to have a "do over." The times we were a little naughty or disobedient or not as respectful and loving to our parents as we should have been weigh heavily on our hearts. If we stop to think about the situation, though, most can realize that as we grew and matured we did have a "do over" with our parents and family. Our growth in kindness and understanding did establish new and positive relationships with those we love. We were able to make-up for some of our childhood failings, and increased understanding and wisdom enhanced our relationships.

Another insight that comes as we encounter the "world outside the home" and the difficulties of adulthood is that the joys, blessings, and learning from our childhood home far outweigh any small problems we may have had. The home and family have truly been a testing ground providing essential learning and self-knowledge that help us cope with and succeed in the outside world. My interaction with family helped me to realize my talents, my skills, and my necessary limits--all of which helped me with life choices.

Memory plays an important role in our reconciliation with early family. I have heard a church friend say that "she always felt good just to be in the same room as her mother." We remember the love, the sharing, the laughter, the kindness, and the caring. We remember the good times and the unforgettable events. We treasure these personal riches forever.

And we incorporate so much from our early family experience into our present home. Small customs, rituals, habits, expressions of speech, celebrations, cherished objects--all become part of our daily lives and holiday activities. We never celebrate Christmas without Mom's lovely Christmas centerpiece and candle on the dining room table, and as we light the candle we remember her with great love. And so it goes--so many activities and events in the round of a year recall our best memories of loved ones and our childhood home.

These lovely memories are part of what I call the "graces" God grants us. We need to be thankful to our loving Father for the understanding He sends and rejoice in its purity, goodness, and truth. These, truly, are part of what give us abundant life in Christ Jesus.
…..Mary-Ellen Grisham (meginrose@gmail.com) (eternal_ink@associate.com) by way of “Christian Voices” (www.ChristianVoicesWorldwide.net)